Kate Schaefers brings an expertise in lifelong learning, midlife transitions, and career development across the lifespan to her work in the College of Continuing and Professional Studies (CCAPS). She currently directs the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, a learning community for those 50+, as well as The Midlife Academy. Prior to joining CCAPS, Kate was executive director of the University of Minnesota Advanced Careers Initiative, a gap year for experienced professionals as they transition into meaningful post-career lives. She currently serves on the AARP-MN Executive Council, as well as the UMN Age-Friendly University Council. She is co-chair of The Nexel Collaborative, a higher education consortium focused on serving a new demographic of learners: those at midlife and beyond.
A licensed psychologist, Kate received her PhD from Iowa State University, MA from the University of Minnesota, and BS from Loyola University Chicago.